Duties

Gasfitters employed by utility companies repair and extend gas mains, and install, repair and service pipes and fittings between mains and buildings. Those employed by propane distributors install and service propane vaporizers, temporary heating equipment, propane metering and dispensing equipment, and propane pumping equipment. Gasfitters employed by mechanical and service companies install and maintain piping and appliances in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

convert motor vehicles or appliances to use other fuels (e.g. propane or natural gas), and

install and service propane and natural gas filling stations.

For more information regarding tasks and activities, please review the Trade Regulation.

Working Conditions

Gasfitters work both indoors and outdoors at physically demanding tasks. They work a 40-hour week with overtime sometimes required for emergencies or to meet construction deadlines.

There may be some risk of injury involved in working with explosive gases and power tools. Safety training is mandatory.

Skills and Abilities

The work is most rewarding for those who enjoy working with little direction or supervision. People in this field also enjoy variety in a job as well as security.

To be successful in this trade, gasfitters-Class B must have:

the ability to work with little supervision,

the skill to diagnose problems,

the ability to use proper lifting techniques for items in excess of 25 kilograms,

mechanical, electrical and electronic aptitude,

manual dexterity, and

the ability to deal courteously with customers.

Employment and Advancement

Gasfitters-Class B are employed in the construction, manufacturing and utilities industries. Employment prospects change with seasonal and economic climates.

Experienced gasfitters may advance to supervisory positions such as foreman, maintenance manager or service manager, or start their own contracting businesses.

Working in Alberta

To work as a gasfitter-Class B in Alberta, a person must be a registered apprentice, an Alberta-certified journeyperson, or hold a valid recognized credential.

Individuals possessing a valid recognized credential in Alberta are eligible to receive a Blue Seal business credential after completing the necessary requirements.

Apprenticeship Training

The term of apprenticeship for a gasfitter-Class B is 2 years (two 12-month periods) including a minimum of 1560 hours of on-the-job training and 8 weeks of technical training each year.

An applicant who previously completed courses of study or work experience related to the gasfitter-Class B trade or holds a related journeyperson certificate and has the employer's recommendation, may qualify for credit that could reduce the term of apprenticeship. Inquiries about credit for previously completed courses of study or work experience can be directed to an apprenticeship representative toll-free at 1-800-248-4823.

A person who has previous training or work experience in the trade and wants to determine their level of skill and knowledge for entry or advanced standing in an apprenticeship program may complete the online Prior Learning Assessment Application.

pay the non-refundable application fee as part of the application process

complete the required on-the-job training - during on-the-job training, apprentice gasfitter-class B earn at least 90 percent of the journeyperson wage rate in their place of employment in the first year, and 95 percent in the second year.

complete all of the program requirements as identified in the course outline

Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program

A gasfitter-Class B who holds a valid trade certificate from Alberta or from another Canadian province or territory may apply to write the Interprovincial Exam and, if successful, be granted a Red Seal under the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program. The Red Seal is recognized throughout most of Canada.